Bang Yai: Nearly 100 customers in Bang Yai District, Nonthaburi Province, have collectively filed a complaint against a well-known entertainment venue after learning that the venue had taken photographs of their ID cards. The customers expressed concerns that their personal information could potentially be misused. Authorities are in the process of summoning the venue's owner for further information.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident came to light following a complaint by a female customer who reported losing two mobile phones at the venue. When she confronted the staff, a security guard allegedly bruised her arm during an altercation and challenged her to report the incident to the police. Subsequently, she faced threats on social media after warning others about her experience. These events led netizens to discover that the venue had been photographing customers' faces and ID cards, allegedly selling this information to illegal groups. Alarmed by these revelations, numerous patrons have registered complaints at the Bang Yai Police Station to safeguard their rights and prevent potential misuse of their personal data.
In a separate instance, another female customer's photograph was posted on the venue's Facebook page, offering a bottle of alcohol in exchange. Her ID card was also photographed for a police report. Initially dismissive of the incident, she was prompted to act after friends recognized her in the image. This incident, coupled with the growing number of complaints, has heightened concerns among patrons.
Ms. Pawina, a 22-year-old victim of the alleged assault, along with the founder of the Kla Tee Kao page, approached the Nonthaburi governor seeking justice. She expressed fears for her safety, especially given the venue owner's purported connections to a former high-ranking police officer. Despite previous reports of misconduct at the venue, such as operating past legal hours and allegations of drug use, no illegal activities had been uncovered during inspections.
The Nonthaburi governor has vowed to direct the Bang Yai Police Station to pursue legal action on the assault allegations and investigate the venue's operations. While the venue has not been ordered to close due to insufficient evidence of wrongdoing, authorities are urged to expedite their inquiries.
The Superintendent of Bang Yai Police Station and related agencies are actively investigating the claims. The PDPC Inspection and Supervision Office has identified potential privacy violations from the venue's practices and is coordinating with the police to address these issues promptly.
Despite the venue owner's alleged police connections, the Bang Yai District Chief confirmed that recent inspections did not uncover illegal activities. The venue has been instructed to enhance its facilities, including improved lighting, and is expected to temporarily close for renovations.
Prominent lawyer Ronnarong Kaewpetch highlighted that selling customer data without consent under the Personal Data Control Act constitutes both civil and criminal offenses. Restaurateurs and bar operators who misuse data for profit face substantial penalties, including potential imprisonment and hefty fines.